Business financing in Old North

Options, local help and what lenders look for in Old North, London. Apply once and we’ll match you with one financing partner.

Updated October 2026Sources linked

Short answer

Businesses in Old North can use the same options as the rest of London: bank and credit union loans, the government-backed Canada Small Business Financing Program (up to $1.15 million), BDC loans and specialist lenders. Given what Old North is like, term loans and lines of credit come up often. The London Small Business Centre offers free advice to businesses across London.

Doing business in Old North

An older neighbourhood north of downtown, with large heritage homes on tree-lined streets.

Large older homes and mature trees make it one of London’s most sought-after areas. Many homes need updates, and buyers often plan renovations.

Financing for Old North businesses

Businesses in Old North draw on London’s wider economy, especially health care, manufacturing and education. A partner who works locally understands those patterns before your first conversation.

How NorthMerit can help

Apply once and we’ll connect you with one financing partner who works with businesses like yours. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.

Where Old North businesses get financing

OptionHow muchWhat you needGood for
Bank or credit union loanVaries with revenue and securityUsually 2+ years of statements, good credit, often a personal guarantee and collateralEstablished, profitable businesses
Canada Small Business Financing ProgramUp to $1.15M: $1M in term loans (up to $500K for equipment and leaseholds) plus a $150K line of creditRevenue of $10M or less; arranged through your bank or credit union; 2% registration feeStart-ups and businesses short on collateral
BDC small business loanUp to $350K, applied for online24 months in business, profitable, credit score of 600+, revenue of $100K+ ($250K+ above $100K)Working capital, growth, refinancing
Alternative and online lendersSmaller amounts, fast decisionsBank statements and revenue history; higher costShort-term needs when a bank says no
Equipment financing or leasingUp to the full cost of the equipmentThe equipment secures the loan; a quote or invoiceMachinery, vehicles, technology

Free local help

  • London Small Business Centre: training, guidance and programs including Starter Company Plus and Summer Company. Visit
  • Starter Company Plus: Ontario grants of up to $5,000, plus training and mentoring, for people 18 and older starting or buying a business, delivered through local small business centres. You contribute at least 25% of the grant amount. Ontario

Sources

We checked these figures against official sources in October 2026. Rules and rates change, so confirm the details with your mortgage professional, lawyer or the source before you rely on them.

  1. Canada Small Business Financing Program (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada)
  2. BDC small business loan
  3. Starter Company Plus (Government of Ontario)
  4. London Small Business Centre
  5. London’s economy

Common questions

What financing do businesses in Old North use most?
Businesses in Old North draw on London’s wider economy, especially health care, manufacturing and education. A partner who works locally understands those patterns before your first conversation.
Where can I get free business advice near Old North?
The London Small Business Centre serves London, including Old North, with training, guidance and programs including Starter Company Plus and Summer Company.
Can a new business in Old North get a loan?
Yes, often through the Canada Small Business Financing Program at a participating bank, or BDC start-up financing once you have 12 months of revenue. Starter Company Plus offers grants of up to $5,000 for new owners.
How does NorthMerit help Old North businesses?
You apply once. We verify your business against the Ontario Business Registry and introduce you to one financing partner who works with London businesses. There’s no cost to apply.

The right financing, from the right partner.

Apply once. One financing partner who knows businesses like yours. Free, with no obligation.